Family holiday on the way to NZ - any recommendations?

[Missjojo]

We're planning a trip to NZ in November and thinking we might stop somewhere for a holiday for 5 or 7 nights on the way.

We'll be travelling with a 3 1/2 year old and a 6 month old, so we need to keep travel logistics as simple as possible. We'd ideally like somewhere sunny and warm (but not too hot for the little ones). Or if not sunny, somewhere interesting. We've thought about Thailand, LA/Vegas, San Fran, or even Aussie.

Can you recommended anywhere? Destinations, hotels/resorts...?

Thx

[simonethebeaver]

I love Santa Barbara and San Jose - they have great beaches, nice hotels and restaurants, and if you book now for November you should find some good deals on accommodation.

[vch]

With kids in tow, I would avoid Vegas. They won't be old enough to enjoy the arcades anyway. SF weather is variable, so no guarantees that it'll be sunny and warm. But lots of interesting things to see/do and good food to be had!

What about San Diego? There's a direct flight operated by BA from LHR to SAN. It's pretty kid friendly. The zoo is fabulous. Lots of beautiful sandy beaches between Carlsbad and La Jolla. And Coronado too.

[scareyt]

San Francisco could be quite chilly in November, it's often noticably colder than everywhere else nearby because of the fog. Santa Cruz is a lovely laid-back little town on the coast between LA and San Francisco if you fancy somewhere with a beach, great food & coffee and a bit of a hippy vibe in a good way.

[PB]

Bali? Just avoid Kuta! The rest of the island is lovely.